The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a public warning about fake universities offering unrecognized degrees. Students, parents, and the general public are urged to verify the legitimacy of institutions before seeking admission.
Only UGC-Recognized Universities Can Award Degrees
According to UGC regulations, only universities established under a State Act, Central Act, or Provincial Act, or those authorized under the UGC Act, 1956, can award valid degrees. However, some institutions are violating these rules and offering degrees with no legal value for higher studies or jobs.
To avoid falling victim to these fraudulent universities, students should verify institutions on the official UGC website – www.ugc.ac.in before applying.
Government Action on Fake Universities
A recent Ministry of Education report revealed that 12 out of 21 fake universities identified since 2014 have been shut down. Many of these unauthorized institutions were found in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
The Central Government has instructed State Governments and Union Territories to take strict legal action against such universities. Chief Secretaries have also been directed to monitor and report unauthorized institutions in their regions.
How to Report Fake Universities?
Students and parents can report suspected fake universities by emailing ugcampc@gmail.com.
A detailed list of fake universities is available on the UGC website under the “Fake Universities List” section.
Stay Safe – Verify Before You Apply!
Before seeking admission, students must double-check university credentials to ensure they are UGC-recognized. This simple step can protect their future from fraudulent institutions.
